Comparing the Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4 in Tucson

A Head to Head Battle Between the 2021 Models

The Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 are two of the most popular compact SUVs available in the Oro Valley area.  Both models offer their strengths, but what sets them apart.  Our team at Tucson Subaru is here to make your next vehicle purchase simpler and more affordable by exploring differences in power, features, safety, and comfort.  Let's break down the key similarities and differences between the new Forester and RAV4.

Here's What You Need to Know

Pricing

When shopping for a new vehicle, what's the first thing you consider? Price! The 2021 Subaru Forester base model has a lower starting price than the Toyota RAV4, which also means lower monthly payments.  You'll have to pay more for the features you've been hoping for with a RAV4 and have to choose a higher trim level, which will increase the price that much more.

Comfort

You want to look forward to your next early morning commute to Marana, which means you want a new vehicle that is comfortable, supportive, and modern.  The 2021 Subaru Forester not only has more front- and rear-seat passenger space than the new RAV4, but the doors have also been designed to be larger, making it easier for you to load up luggage, car seats, and much more.

While the new RAV4 does provide a good amount of space, your passengers will enjoy the ability to stretch out more in the Forester.

The 2021 Subaru Forester has up to 31.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats in comparison to the RAV4 model's 37.6 cubic feet. When you fold the seats down, this is when the Forester opens up more space with up to 76.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity compared to the RAV4's 69.8 cubic feet of cargo space.

Both models are available with power liftgates.

Comparing Handling, Engines and Capability

You never know what the weather is going to bring in Sahuarita, so when it comes time to choose a new vehicle, you want to be sure it can handle your next adventure.

The 2021 Subaru Forester comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a 182 horsepower four-cylinder engine.

The Toyota RAV4 offers a four-cylinder 203 horsepower engine, but the standard powertrain is front-wheel drive, which won't give you the same amount of traction control as the new Forester.

The Subaru Forester will also provide you with a more balanced ride with sharper handling around turns in Marana. The Forester is also better suited for off-road driving if you choose to take your adventures to the mountains!

Safety Technology

Both the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 excel in safety features.  Both models were awarded an overall rating and side crash test score of five out of five stars from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Institute.

The Subaru Forester did, however, score a higher frontal crash test rating of five out of five stars, and the RAV4 only scored four stars out of five.

Both models come with their own suites of safety features that include advanced capabilities to look out for your blind spots, assist you in navigating traffic and even apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision all-together.

Interior Features

The Forester has been designed with a keen everyday driving eye as evidenced through its simple and easy-to-reach knobs and controls. The model features an optional eight-inch infotainment screen that also operates as a massive display for the SUV's rearview camera. This STARLINK Multimedia system also features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibilities. The model features a generous 76.1 cubic feet of cargo room that facilitates easy transportation of duffle bags, dogs and dog crates, and vacation gear. The RAV4 offers up its own take on a first-class cabin experience with 69.8 cubic feet of interior cargo volume, an optional eight-inch touchscreen system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The two SUVs are about even when it comes to interior layout but if you're the head of a family in the Sahuarita or Sierra Vista area and feel you might need a bit more room for groceries and after school sports equipment, the Forester and its cavernous interior are probably fit for you.

Overview

So which crossover SUV will it be? If these features get you excited about the 2021 Subaru Forester, you can schedule a test drive online and experience the drive for yourself.

This is a great way to test out the technology, see how the handling feels and explore additional features.

Here at Tucson Subaru near Green Valley, AZ we are ready to get you set up with financing on a new Forester!

The Bottom Line

While the Toyota RAV4 offers many features that will surely bolster your time spent trekking through Marana and Green Valley, AZ, the SUV really can't stand up to the Forester's reputation for long-standing dependability and quality. Please contact us to take a test drive in the Subaru Forester at your earliest leisure.